Bae Ji-hwan (24, Pittsburgh Pirates) starts the season in the major leagues for the first time after advancing to the United States.
On the 29th (Korean time), MLB.com, the official homepage of Major League Baseball, announced that “Utility Man Bae Ji-hwan will start the 2023 season with Pittsburgh.”
This is the first time Bae Ji-hwan has been named on the 26-man opening roster.
The media explained, “As a left-handed hitter, he can play second baseman Platoon and Bae Ji-hwan, who has experience as an outfielder, was expected to join the roster.” 토토사이트
After graduating from Gyeongbuk High School, Bae Ji-hwan, who moved to the United States after signing a contract with Pittsburgh in 2018, went through minor league single-A and double-A before rising to Triple-A last year. He played for the Indianapolis Indians, a Triple A team affiliated with Pittsburgh, with a batting average of 0.289, 8 homers and 53 RBIs in 108 games, and was selected as the club’s self-selected Most Valuable Player (MVP).
Recognized for his competitiveness, he was finally called to the big leagues in September of last year and fulfilled his dream of becoming a major leaguer. It was the birth of the 26th Korean big leaguer ever.
Although he only played in 10 regular season games, he showed off his versatility, such as his quick feet and defense that can handle both the infield and outfield.
He participated in 19 major league exhibition games this year and recorded a batting average of 0.234 (12 hits in 47 at-bats), 2 RBIs, 2 walks and 4 stolen bases. On defense, he played second baseman, shortstop, and even center fielder.
Standing on a new starting line, Bae Ji-hwan now enters a new competition in the major leagues.
Pittsburgh will play the 2023 season opener against the Cincinnati Reds on the 31st.